Well, this is true. But, we haven't really had a team that could be considered a strong contender in all that time. The Francis teams were never all that good. The Yao/McGrady teams never won more than 55 games and usually flamed out in the playoffs. The 2014-15 team was probably the most overachieving team in Rockets history and was competitive against the Warriors in the conference finals, but was not considered to be a true contender by many. So, at this point in the season, this team does look to have the best chance to win a championship over all those previous Rockets team. However, until the Rockets prove something in the playoffs, then I still see the Warriors and the Cavs as much stronger favorites at this point. But, at least we are in the hunt.
I thought the '08-'09 Rockets had a better shot before getting cut down by injuries. Also the '14-'15 Rockets when Howard was still contributing. There's a lot of luck involved in these things. And, this team could end up doing better than those. But, I'm worried the defense isn't good enough for the playoffs, and then we have a lot of injury risk depending on a number of guys with shaky history.
Defense has been pretty good when needed so far this season. Might not be exactly what we as fans would prescribe, but if they can expend less energy over the course of games on defense and "get serious" and get the stops they need to get at critical junctures, then I can live with that. This system is predicated on letting the offense be the primary defense. Let's just hope their 3's fall in the playoffs.
On paper the 08-08 team was slightly deeper but they never reached their potential losing Tmac, Mutumbo, and Yao. My opinion at least, I hold the 08-09 team in very high regard.
I do too. One can consider it a "freak accident" for both Yao and Mutombo to go down in the same playoffs. The highly improbable happened.
I can guarantee you that no team will be as cocky as they have been in the past come playoff time. Including the Warriors. Other teams will still have to be able to defend the Rockets, and I don't see how they'll be able to do that. They are getting better & better. What's scary (for other teams) is Harden isn't even giving his all right now.
Speaking of the '09 season.... why does Golden State never experience significant injuries on their team? It seems like they don't face the adversity that other sports teams face. That's the only thing that makes me suspicious about jinxes or black magic.
First season with a new coach and a new system, plus two new main cogs? And still only one star player? If we make a deep playoff run and show that we're ready to go toe-to-toe with the big boys now, I'll be happy. Anything else is gravy. NEXT season, though, after Morey and Les go all-in this summer and open the vault to bring in Paul George? I'm ready to buy my finals tickets NOW.
GSW lost depth, their D got a tad worse, O stays same or tad better, star power increased, newly assembled team. Cavs going to be tough with shooters, I think Lebron going to be an Allstar till he is 37.
